The news of Don Lemon’s nasty exchange with his colleague Kaitlan Collins has been making headlines in recent weeks, and it appears the rift between the two on-air personalities may be far from over.
The incident, which occurred on Dec. 8th during CNN’s breaking news of Brittney Griner’s release from Russia, left Collins visibly upset, according to a source who witnessed the exchange. It’s been reported that Lemon scolded Collins for “interrupting” him and that CNN boss Chris Licht had to intervene and urge Lemon to take a day off.
Lemon did not appear on the Dec. 9 broadcast, and the incident has been widely reported by outlets such as The New York Post. But a CNN spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the incident was “wildly overblown” and that Lemon, Collins, and Poppy Harlow are still friends.
However, that appears to be far from the truth.
“The following night, the three co-hosts were slated to get drinks and arrive together at a White House Christmas party for the press, a source said. But the pre-party gathering never happened after the emotional day and they trickled in to the bash separately, an insider with knowledge said. After the party, Lemon had a late-night dinner with his agent, Jay Sures, according to sources,” the Post reported, adding, “The situation was especially awkward because Collins… is also represented by the powerful and well-connected Sures.”
“At this point, Kaitlan wants to be on set with Don as little as possible,” the source told the Post. “It’s messy.”
The incident may have been part of a larger problem between Lemon and Collins, who is widely seen as a rising star at CNN. The week prior, Lemon and Collins clashed over the pay disparity between professional male and female soccer players, while Lemon was also shuffled into mornings after struggling in primetime. It’s been reported that Collins now wants to be on set with Lemon as little as possible due to the awkwardness.
“It’s because [men’s soccer] is more interesting to watch!” Lemon exclaimed. “It just is!”
The spat continued into the commercial break.
According to reports, Lemon has caused Collins to break down into tears on at least one occasion.
When the big boss has to tell you to take a day off, you know you are in big trouble. Discovery may be better off shutting down CNN and launching a new brand.
